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What is Coding?
Coding is a complex technique that tells a computer or other device what to do and how to do it. This is done by typing up what is called a script, or very detailed lines of commands that tell a computer how to behave. There are four types of coding (source coding, channel coding, cryptographic coding, and line coding), and it’s also called computer programming— hence “programming” a computer to carry out a specific task.
While this may sound like an extremely complex task, it’s actually pretty comprehensible when broken down. Living in a highly digital world, coding is all around us and you’ve probably dabbled in coding without even realizing it.
Examples of Coding and Where It’s Used
When most people hear the word “coding”, they most often think of computers, especially since the term “computer programming” is synonymous with “coding”. Coding is what makes computers, computer programs, and software, and websites work in the way that they’re intended to. Millennials may remember dabbling in coding when the social media platform MySpace was popular, where they could customize and tweak their pages to their liking.
However, coding doesn’t just stop at computers and websites— all digital devices need coding instructions in order to function properly. The apps and software on our phones also use coding, so your favorite social media apps (and websites) and games are great examples of where coding is used in our everyday lives.
Careers in Coding
Depending on the specific position, coding careers can easily earn you up to $100,000 or more per year. To be eligible for a position in coding careers, you’ll need a Bachelor’s degree in computer science, but you may also be only required to complete an Associate degree or certificate. Here are some examples of careers in coding and what they do:
- Computer programmers create software programs for computers and make sure that they’re running properly.
- Computer systems analysts evaluate systems used by companies and other organizations to determine if they’re working efficiently.
- Database administrators are in charge of creating a database to store information.
- Network systems administrators manage all aspects of a company’s computer network, ensuring that the company is operating correctly.
- Software application developers create software for computer and phone applications.
- Web developers create websites and ensure that they run smoothly.
These are just a few examples of careers in coding. As mentioned earlier, coding is used for many different things, so you could also pursue a career as a video game coder or any job that requires a detailed script to make a program work.
Start Learning How to Code Today
Although many coding jobs require formal education in coding and computer science, it’s not necessary to start learning how to code right now. Look online for coding bootcamps, which are accredited programs that teach you how to code. These bootcamps are a great alternative to earning a degree in coding for those looking to enter the field of computer programming, but may not have time to go back to school full-time.
Coding bootcamps will teach you everything you need to know about coding and prepare you for entry-level positions in the coding field. Even these entry-level positions can earn you an impressive annual salary, and give you a great foundation if you ever decide to further your education and move into higher positions.
Coding may seem intimidating at first, but it’s all around us. Some types can be fairly simple and straightforward, while others types are much more complex.
However, it’s only hard because it’s probably something that you’ve never done or thought about before. If you have little to no experience in coding and want to learn, it’s best to start off with a coding bootcamp that will teach you the basics of coding but won’t have you pay college and university prices.